Hospital stays can be tough for little ones, like three-year-old Coby (pictured), who is far from home for surgery and also sad about missing his big sister’s school farm day. Cuddling a soft toy can work wonders, helping ease the anxiety and fear that comes with being in a hospital.
Last year alone, nearly 4,000 Tiaki toys were gifted to young patients across the regional Te Wao Nui Child Health Service. These toys provide not just comfort, but are also a welcome distraction during scary or unpleasant medical procedures.
Te Wao Nui features a whānau of nine kaitiaki characters inspired by New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna, each one dedicated to supporting children and young people throughout their hospital journey. Tiaki, is modelled on New Zealand’s Pohutukawa and is the main guardian and official mascot of the regional child health service.
Thanks to the very generous support of the Herbert Teagle Masonic Perpetual Trust and Freemasons New Zealand we can continue to provide these special toys to children, making their hospital experiences a little brighter.